A chain guide element having a first guide rail and a second guide rail which is spaced from the first guide rail to guide a moving chain therebetween. On each lateral side of the chain guide element connecting elements connect the two guide rails in spaced relationship to slidably receive a moving chain. First supporting elements are positioned on the laterally arranged connecting elements that connect the first and second guide rails, and second supporting elements are carried by a stationary component to cooperate with the first supporting elements so that the chain guide element is pivotable and is linearly movable relative to the second supporting elements.